Launch of Gaeilge Stretch Programme

27 Sep 2024

On Friday 27th September Barr na gCnoc celebrated the launch of the Gaeilge Stretch Programme.

For six weeks students from Strawberry Hill National School, Hollyhill, and St. Mary’s on the Hill National School, Knocknaheeny, will join first and second-year Gaelcholáiste Mhic Shuibhne students to enhance their Irish language skills. Gaeilge Stretch lessons take place once a week and aim to encourage and inspire students to have fun with the Irish language.   

The programme aims to bridge the gap between primary and post-primary Irish language education. The primary key competencies of language learning and Junior Cycle key skills, which are closely aligned, are embedded in the delivery of the programme. Students are encouraged to develop these skills at different learning stations where they creatively complete tasks individually and in collaboration with their fellow learners. Each week participants are provided with a bespoke workbook and explore a range of themes. Students have the opportunity to enhance their spoken and written Irish and digital fluency.  

The Gaeilge Stretch Programme was devised by Hilary O’Connor  of the School of Education, UCC, and is led by  Hilary and her colleague Seán Ó Broin, and by Sean Ó Freaghaile of Gaelcholáiste Mhic Shuibhne. Ten UCC students work with the team to prepare thematic content and deliver the stations to approximately 80 participants each Friday morning. These third-level students play an important role in encouraging participants to develop confidence with the Irish language.   

Barr na gCnoc are sincerely appreciative of the support of Principal Phil O’Flynn (Gaelcholáiste Mhic Shuibhne), Principal Maura Fennessy (St. Mary’s on the Hill National School), and Principal Liz Horgan (Strawberry Hill National School) for supporting and facilitating the delivery of this programme.   

For more on this story contact:

Adel Coleman, Project Manager: adel.coleman@ucc.ie